The Soundcore P30i represents Anker's serious push into the budget ANC earbud market, and at £21.66, they've hit a real sweet spot. These aren't just cheap earbuds with a few features tacked on—they're genuinely competent daily drivers.
Let's talk noise cancelling first. The ANC isn't reference-grade, but it handles office chatter and road noise effectively. You'll get a noticeable reduction rather than complete silence, which is exactly what most people need for commuting. The 'smart' aspect means it adapts to your environment through the app, which I found genuinely useful.
Battery life is where they shine: 45 hours total with the case is genuinely impressive at this price. The case also functions as a phone stand, which feels like a practical addition rather than gimmick. Real-world usage easily nets 6-7 hours per charge before needing the case.
Sound quality leans towards punchier bass—perfect for hip-hop or electronic music, but if you prefer neutrality, you might want to tweak the EQ through the Anker Soundcore app. Clarity is decent; vocals don't disappear into the bass, though they're not as detailed as pricier competitors.
IP54 rating is solid protection for sweat and light rain. Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity is stable across my devices without dropouts.
The main catch? Build quality feels lightweight compared to premium earbuds, and at-ear pressure can feel notchy for some after extended wear. They're not for critical listening sessions, but for everyday use, they punch well above their weight.
At nearly half price off, these are genuinely worth considering. You're not making huge compromises—just accepting that they're designed for practical reliability rather than premium refinement.